Breaking news

Oil Prices Drop At The Start Of The Week As Trump Pushes OPEC For Price Cuts

Oil prices opened the week on a downward trend following a renewed call from US President Donald Trump urging the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) to slash crude prices. The request came in the wake of his announcement of extensive measures to ramp up oil and natural gas production in the United States, according to Reuters.

Key Facts

As of 9 a.m. Bulgarian time, Brent crude saw a 49-cent drop, or 0.62%, settling at $78.01 per barrel. Meanwhile, US light crude followed suit, dipping 49 cents, or 0.66%, to $74.17 a barrel.

What To Watch

Trump reiterated his demand on Friday, emphasizing that OPEC’s move to lower prices could exert financial pressure on Russia, which heavily relies on energy exports to fund its ongoing war in Ukraine. Additionally, Trump warned of further taxes, tariffs, and sanctions targeting Russia—and other nations involved—if the war persists without a resolution.

Cyprus Services Sector Shows Robust Performance In 2025 As Tourism, Digital Innovation, And Shipping Surge

The Employers and Industrialists Federation (OEV) reported growth across Cyprus’ services sector in 2025, with increases recorded in tourism, professional services and administrative activities. Data show continued expansion across multiple sub-sectors, reinforcing the role of services in economic output and employment.

Service Sector Leadership

Accommodation and food services grew by 9.5%, while administrative and support activities increased by 7.4%. Professional, scientific and technical activities rose by 4.6%, followed by information and communication at 4.3%. Transport and storage recorded growth of 2.8%, while real estate activity increased by 0.4%. These figures indicate broad-based expansion across service industries.

A Remarkable Tourism Surge

Tourist arrivals reached 4,534,073 in 2025, marking a 12.2% increase year-on-year. December arrivals totaled 156,959, up 18% compared with the same period a year earlier. Tourism continues to support revenue generation and seasonal demand across the economy. Growth in visitor numbers contributes to activity in hospitality and related sectors.

Driving Digital Transformation

OEV is supporting digital adoption through initiatives such as the DiGiNN Cyprus Digital Innovation Hub. The program focuses on improving business processes, skills development and technology integration. Additional efforts include the establishment of a Digital Transformation and Innovation Committee and international engagement through business missions. These actions support the adoption of digital tools across sectors.

Resilient Shipping Sector

Shipping accounted for about 7% of Cyprus’s GDP in 2025, remaining a key component of the economy. The Cyprus Registry recorded its highest tonnage in 20 years, with an increase of nearly 20%. Fleet growth strengthens Cyprus’ position within European Union shipping registries and global maritime markets. The sector continues to contribute to economic stability.

Strengthening The Economic Foundation

OEV is organizing conferences, workshops and exhibitions to support business development across sectors. These initiatives focus on improving operational practices and industry collaboration. Continued investment in services and digital infrastructure is expected to support economic performance.

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